While the risk posed by military strikes and armed conflict in the Middle East is expected to reduce following the announcement that the United States and Iran have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to end their conflict, disruptions to global supply chains continue.
Restrictions on shipping through key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, reduced the movement of oil and refined fuel products and have driven sharp increases in fuel prices.
As a result, some countries have introduced fuel‑preservation measures. Travellers may experience:
- flight delays or cancellations due to fuel shortages
- changes to flight schedules or aircraft types
- disruptions to local transport services
- shortages or reduced availability of essential goods such as food, water and medicines
- restrictions on purchasing fuel.
These measures can be introduced or changed at short notice.
Maritime and supply‑chain security impacts
Increased security risks to commercial shipping in the Middle East and nearby waterways have affected global supply chains. Shipping companies have rerouted vessels to avoid high‑risk areas, leading to longer transit times, higher transport costs and reduced availability of fuel and goods in some locations.
These disruptions contribute to broader travel impacts, including higher airfares, constrained freight capacity and delays in cargo movements that support tourism and essential services.
What travellers should do
If you are planning travel:
- Read and follow travel advice for all destinations and transit points, not just your final destination.
- Register for travel advice updates: SafeTravel registration.
- Monitor any communications from your airline.
- Do not cancel flights until you have received professional advice, as options may be limited.
- Check your travel insurance carefully for coverage relating to conflict, delays, cancellations and changes to travel advice levels.
Useful links
